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Wicklow Holidaymakers Urged to Take Holiday Travel Precautions - Minister Martin

Wicklow holidaymakers planning to head for the sun in the coming weeks should take a number of precautions before leaving for the airport, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin.The Minister has issued a holiday alert to Wicklow holidaymakers following an increase of 20% in the number of Irish people losing their lives abroad so far this year, with over 100 deaths.

"While the vast majority of people travelling during the summer months will have an enjoyable and safe break, it is worth bearing in mind that staff in my Department are supporting families everyday whose loved ones have fallen victim to an accident or ended up in trouble", the Minister said. "There are a number of precautions which Wicklow holidaymakers can undertake before travelling:

* Take out Personal Travel Insurance - this is vital. The lack of insurance can cause huge hardship for a family who are also dealing with the heartbreak of having a loved involved in an accident or crime abroad.
* Register on www.dfa.ie - by registering on my Department's website it makes it easier for my staff to contact people abroad in the event of a natural disaster or civil unrest, and also if there is a family emergency at home.
* Check your Medial Entitlements - if travelling within the EU Irish People are entitled to the same emergency treatment as a local. However it is important that a European Health Insurance Card is acquired before travelling, this can be received from the HSE.
* Check your passport - ensure your passport and other travel documents meet the requirements for entry and departure of the country you are visiting. This is important as failure to meet the requirements could leave you stranded at the Airport.

There are other precautions which should be undertaken and these are outlined in full on my Department's website, www.dfa.ie."

"I would also remind holidaymakers that it is important to be aware of local laws, cultures and traditions. Often behaviour which is regarded as minor on the streets of Wicklow carries heavy penalties abroad with big fines and even imprisonment."

"While issuing these important precautions I am keenly aware that the vast majority of Wicklow holidaymakers do use common sense and take proper measures before travelling and it is my hope that those heading abroad over the summer will have a safe and enjoyable break", concluded Minister Martin.